Alberta Beef Producers says it will split from Canadian Cattle Association

Alberta Beef Producers says it will leave the Canadian Cattle Association, citing issues with the group's governance and lack of representation.

About 50 per cent of the Canadian Cattle Association’s funding comes from Alberta Beef Producers.

But that may soon change.

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) says it intends to split from the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) when the current agreement between the two ends on June 30, 2026.

“Right at the moment, we are still a member of the CCA and will work with them in all areas of national development as we move forward,” said ABP general manager Brad Dubeau.

ABP says it is concerned about the CCA’s governance and fiscal transparency.

It has suggested bringing in an independent third party to review the governance structure.

Only a third of the CCA’s 27-member board is from Alberta, despite Alberta bringing in half the money.

“Despite our efforts and asking for change, we have not seen meaningful progression or willingness to address these concerns. We owe it to Alberta cattle producers to ensure their dollars are invested in organizations that will align with their values and priorities,” said ABP chair Doug Roxburgh.

The CCA was surprised by the announcement.

It admits ABP leaving would be a huge financial blow.

“Quite simply did not anticipate any kind of an announcement like that. And very disappointed. I was really preparing to engage in a lot of the issues that they had raised,” said CCA president Tyler Fulton.

There is a belief on both sides that a deal could be reached before ABP’s exit.

Conversations since the announcement have helped to clarify Alberta’s concerns.

“I really feel like we’re on the same page. We’re both motivated to ensure that going forward, the CCA is an effective, unified national voice for beef producers,” said Fulton.

Alberta Beef Producers will stick to its financial commitments until its intended departure date.